Landlord Entry & Inspections

Under the Landlord and Tenant Act 1974, a landlord, or someone they have authorized in writing, may enter a rental unit to inspect its condition or check whether repairs or maintenance are needed. However, they must follow specific legal requirements to do so.

What Your Landlord Must Do

Before entering your home, a landlord must:

• Provide written notice at least 24 hours in advance, and

• Visit at a reasonable time of day.

These requirements protect your right to privacy and ensure inspections are carried out respectfully and lawfully.

Lock Changes Are Not Allowed Without Notice

During an inspection or at any other time, a landlord cannot change the locks without giving you notice and providing a replacement key.

Doing so is a breach of the tenancy agreement and the law, and it gives you the right to end your tenancy immediately if you choose.

If you decide to leave the property because of this breach, you must still pay:

• Any outstanding rent owed, and

• A prorated amount of rent up to the day you move out

• (for example: paying 20 days’ rent if you leave on the 20th of the month).

Tenants Cannot Change Locks Without Permission

Likewise, tenants are not permitted to change the locks during their tenancy without the landlord’s consent. Doing so may be considered a breach of the tenancy agreement and could lead to eviction proceedings.